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Document Details : Title: A Paradigm for Schism in the Vinayas Subtitle: The Devadatta Narrative Complex in its Historical Context Author(s): LI, Channa Journal: Journal of the International Association of Buddhist Studies Volume: 46 Date: 2023 Pages: 209-288 DOI: 10.2143/JIABS.46.0.3293163 Abstract : In this paper, I argue that the core, and probably also the earliest layer, of Devadatta’s image depicts him not as an evildoer, but as the first schismatic monk to appear during the Buddha’s lifetime. Many elements of his schismatic narrative, some of which appear disjointed or contradictory, reflect particular Vinaya discussions of schism. Particularly, the narrative of Devadatta’s early monastic life should be understood as a literary device that shows him as fulfilling the prerequisites for being a schismatic. Other details of the Devadatta narrative, such as the number of Devadatta’s supporters, the actual activities that Devadatta engaged in to create a division, and locations associated with these activities, align with and reflect the different interpretations and emphases placed on the criteria for schism within each Vinaya tradition. |
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